The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has terminated the services of an employee who was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in an alleged bribery case involving the corporation’s West Zone Office in Mumbai.
IRCTC said the decision to dismiss the employee was taken after examining the facts of the case and in accordance with the organisation’s service rules and regulations. The corporation reiterated that it maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, bribery and any form of unethical conduct.
The action follows the CBI’s arrest of a Senior Executive of IRCTC West Zone, Mumbai, along with the Director of Kolkata-based M/s Araha Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., in an alleged bribery case registered on July 22, 2026.
The CBI had alleged that the IRCTC official, in collusion with the private individual and others, demanded and accepted undue advantage in return for facilitating the clearance of pending bills submitted by the private company. The agency stated that cash deposits of ₹1,98,500 on April 21, 2026, and ₹2,00,000 on June 8, 2026, were allegedly made into the official’s Punjab National Bank account through an associate of the private company’s Director.
During the investigation, the CBI questioned both accused persons at the IRCTC West Zone Office in Mumbai regarding the alleged transaction. The agency stated that cash amounting to ₹4,49,500 along with an additional ₹13,200 was recovered from the possession of the private company’s Director. Mobile phones containing alleged incriminating WhatsApp conversations, along with relevant documents, including files and bills related to M/s Araha Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., were also seized.
Subsequent searches at the residential premises of the accused persons led to the recovery of additional documents, according to the CBI. Both accused were arrested on July 22 and produced before the Special Court, which granted police custody until July 27.
IRCTC stated that all employees are required to maintain the highest standards of integrity, transparency, accountability and professionalism while performing their duties. The corporation warned that any violation of legal provisions, including the Prevention of Corruption Act and applicable service conduct rules, would invite strict disciplinary action along with possible criminal proceedings by investigating agencies.
Reaffirming its commitment to ethical governance, IRCTC said strict action would continue to be taken against individuals found involved in corruption or misconduct, as maintaining public trust remains a core priority of the organisation.
